Since its inception all the way back in 1865, the Epsom has become one of the most prestigious races on the Australian racing calendar, as well as being the racing purist's highlight of spring racing in Sydney.

Since 2017, the prize purse has increased to an impressive $1 million, in a truer reflection of the quality of the race.

However, an additional benefit of being first past the post is that the winner is granted exemption from a ballot on the Queen Elizabeth Stakes. This is a 2,000 metre race worth a whopping $4 million as part of the Championships at Randwick.

While curiously not having much in common with a Derby, the 1600 metre start under handicap conditions at Randwick is regarded as one of the best and most equal courses to compete over in Australia. Every horse in the race has a realistic chance of winning, making the Epsom a great betting race.

2017 Epsom Handicap

In 2017, fan favourite Happy Clapper broke through for his maiden Group One victory, getting the better of second-placed specialist Tom Melbourne.

The Pat Webster trained runner was short priced favourite heading into the race ($2.40), and lived up to the expectation by becoming only the third horse in 20 years to carry at least 57kg to win the Espom.